Billy Goldfeder

Full list of Billy Goldfeder results

• Training the chiefs: Where chief officers should focus their time and effort

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  As busy as “chiefing” can be these days, tactical firefighting chief-level training is more relevant now than ever

• What’s your favorite tip for motivating new members?

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  Chief Goldfeder offers several simple tips

• 'We had a crash! And now we need more driver training'

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  Apparatus crashes mean a host of legal and personnel issues, not to mention the potential for tragedy

• When does mayday training cross the line and become too dangerous?

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  It can be VERY realistic without being dangerous; you just need the right instructors

• Bad leaders pretending to be good leaders – it's a real issue!

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  Some simple, even clever, ways to address the disconnect

• Bridging the divide over 'bells and whistles' and FD training

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  Managing generational differences is difficult, but there are ways to bring a group together to function as a team

• Who’s watching the kids?

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  We MUST check the status of smoke alarms at vacation properties, sleepovers, hotels … anywhere and everywhere our kids stay

• Seriously, why do some firefighters still let their suspenders hang down?

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  Talk to anyone who has spent time in a burn unit, and it’s clear why the suspenders are needed

• Why do we still have so many harassment and discrimination claims?

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  We have to train company officers how to deal with these issues

• ‘Put your pants back on’: Proper PPE use is critical to survival

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  Other firefighters died so you could live – so wear your damn gear already!

• The chief doesn't care to be a chief!

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  Ego issues aside, a chief in title only is a huge liability for the fire department

• How can we find volunteers, even people who only have a few hours to spare?

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  First, make sure you're not using terms like “brotherhood” and “sisterhood” if you don’t treat potential members that way

• How do we get our leadership to see the value in investing in our youth members?

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  Buy-in at all levels of the department is important BEFORE starting one of these programs

• How about a little recognition around here?

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  Define the criteria for awards at your department so it doesn't feel so arbitrary

• I get it with the thin line flags, but what about other decals?

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  Remember, the firefighters don't own the apparatus, so it probably comes down to whether labor and management have a good relationship

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